Vice-President of Ghana, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has called for stronger regulation, transparency and accountability in global financial systems, stressing that markets must prioritise people over profits.

Speaking at the opening of the ongoing ACI World Congress in Accra on Friday, May 22, 2026, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang said the theme of the summit, “Elevating Markets, Empowering People,” reflects the urgent need for financial systems to create opportunities and improve livelihoods, especially in developing economies.

According to her, the current global economic environment remains uncertain and unstable, with emerging economies like Ghana often bearing the brunt of external economic shocks.

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She noted that these global disruptions continue to affect national development planning, weaken business confidence and place pressure on household incomes.

“Behind every trade and financial transaction are people making decisions; it is therefore essential that regulation, transparency, and accountability remain central to the development of our financial systems,” the Vice-President stated.

She also underscored the importance of strengthening local financial markets and increasing indigenous participation as Africa deepens economic integration across the continent.

Opoku-Agyemang also highlighted the growing role of technology and automation in the financial sector, stating that while digital innovation is creating new opportunities and improving efficiency, it also exposes countries to cyber threats and other vulnerabilities.

She urged stakeholders to invest in young people and skills development, insisting that the continent’s long-term growth would depend on a new generation of innovative and globally competitive professionals.

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang concluded by urging participants at the congress to develop practical solutions that would promote inclusive, trusted and people-centred financial markets.

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